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You put a lot of thought into keeping your dog healthy: quality food, routine checkups, plenty of fitness. But what about his teeth?

Oral hygiene is an often-overlooked but important factor in your dog’s overall health. If they have a toothache or sore gums, they are dealing with pain and stress that you may not even know about. Left untreated, bacteria introduced by the problem can enter the bloodstream and affect your dog’s heart, kidneys or liver. Veterinarians report that an estimated 85 percent of dogs over age 4 are suffering from some form of periodontal disease, a painful oral condition that can lead to tooth loss and infection. The good news? All of these problems are preventable with regular dental cleanings and professional checkups.

Like regular grooming or the daily jaunt outside, dental care should be something your dog comes to expect each day. But it won’t happen overnight; most dogs take some time getting used to someone poking around in their mouth. Most owners need to warm up to the idea, too! Ideally, introduce dental care when your pooch is still a puppy. But don’t stress if you just realized that your adult dog’s teeth need some attention. Just take a slow, patient approach, and remember that lots of love and treats go a long way in winning him over.

Most experts agree that daily brushing is ideal, but if that’s unrealistic, aim for three to four times per week. And don’t be an overachiever: If your pup’s patience only lasts for you to brush half their teeth today and the other half tomorrow, that’s fine. Just remember which half you did each day!

How to Help Your Dog Clean its Own Teeth

Unfortunately, dogs can’t care for their teeth themselves, but they can help by gnawing on the right product. A good long chew can help scrape away plaque and dirt, and most dogs are happy to comply. Natural choices include rawhide or a knucklebone. Knucklebones are a softer bone that’s gentler on the teeth. Never give harder items, such as hooves or bones from steak, rib or ham shank as these can fracture teeth!

Some dogs won’t bite on these natural choices, but many do enjoy chewing artificial bones or chew toys. Try a variety to see what your dog likes. Always choose rubber or nylon toys with a rough or bumpy surface, large enough so that it won’t present a choking hazard. A chew toy should be somewhat flexible, not rock hard.

Dogs love to eat, and crunchy food and chew treats can help with your overall efforts. Look for the “VOHC-approved” stamp on any dental-cleansing product, which means they meet the tooth cleaning protocols established by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. While these items won’t replace the need to brush, they can help reduce unwanted buildup.

You probably don’t want to share your toothbrush, so once you’re ready to begin brushing, get her some supplies of her own:

–Doggie toothbrush: A human toothbrush works well; choose a soft one in a size to match her mouth. Canine toothbrushes are more angled and also come in a fingertip style, which slips over the end of your finger. Choose the kind you both like.

–Canine toothpaste: It’s unlikely your dog will learn to spit, so she needs a toothpaste that’s safe to swallow. That rules out human formulas, which contain abrasives and detergent that she shouldn’t ingest. Plus, she’ll prefer the poultry or seafood options of canine toothpaste.

–Wipes or pads: When there’s no time for full brushing, wiping her teeth and her gum line will whisk away some bacteria and food. You can use a canine dental pad, available at most pet stores, or a simple gauze pad wrapped around your finger.

So you’ve gathered your supplies and you’re committed to forming good dental habits. Your next goal is convincing your dog.

Tips for Getting Your Dogs Ready for Dental Care

Do not rush it– Don’t expect your dog to sit and open wide. He may think tooth brushing is right up there with having a bath. Depending on your dog’s age and background, it can take several days to several weeks to gain his cooperation.

Get familiar with their mouths–Spend some time handling their mouth. Turn your finger into a treat by dabbing something tasty on it — like peanut butter, meat baby food or nonfat yogurt. Let him lick at your finger, while you gently rub his teeth and gums. Reapply the tasty treat as needed, trying to move their lips aside to expose more of the teeth. They’ll also need to be used to having you handle their muzzle. Gently place one hand under his lower jaw and the other on top, and rest your hands like that for a few seconds. Gradually work your way toward manipulating his mouth by parting his lips, then gently easing his jaw open.

Choose a time of day that works–Once your Dogs have given everything the OK, choose a time of day that’s quiet and unhurried, then bring out the brushing gear.

Let’s Begin – Barksdale Dental Care 101

Let your dog sniff and lick the toothpaste and toothbrush.

Move your dog’s lips aside, then rub the visible teeth with either your finger or the toothbrush. A touch of toothpaste may spark his interest.

Gradually increase the number of teeth you brush, reapplying the toothpaste as needed. Remember to brush along the gum line. A circular motion works best.

Once that’s going well for a few days, try gently opening his jaw to brush the back teeth. Don’t worry if it’s too difficult to brush the inside of his teeth; with most breeds, periodontal disease is more common on the outside of teeth.

Conclude with a special reward — play, treat or affection — even if the process didn’t go well. You want your dog to form a positive association with brushing, so a happy ending this time may make him more agreeable next time.

Next Steps—Choosing Your Dog’s Dentist and Preparing for Their First Trip

You’ll need to take your pet to see the veterinary dentist at some point, so read on for ways to make that a smooth experience. Whether it’s for a professional cleaning or because your dog was up all night with a toothache, make his trip to the dentist as comfortable as possible.

Start by researching which veterinary dentists are in your area. Unless it’s an emergency, ask your vet or other pet parents for their recommendations. If it’s convenient, make a dry run to let your dog say “hello” to the staff, sniff out the waiting room and sample a treat. This lets you both check out the place and helps your dog feel more agreeable about future visits.

When you set up your appointment, find out anything you’d like to know: if you’ll be able to stay with your pet, if they accept your veterinary insurance (if you have it) or any other questions on your mind. Be sure to ask if you need to follow any instructions before his visit. If he’s having some dental procedures — even a cleaning — he may be given an anesthetic, so proper preparation is important.

You may have dental anxiety, but your dog doesn’t have to know it. Your faithful companion has become a master at reading your emotions, so if you act nervous come appointment day, he’ll worry, too. Hop in the car and head to the office as you would any other fun outing. And tuck a reward in your pocket. If his teeth hurt, bring something soft like baby food or peanut butter.

During the appointment, don’t hesitate to ask questions and gather as much information as you need. If you’re uncertain about something, go home and do some research, or consider a second opinion.

Good dental care, both at home and from a professional, is a big part of keeping your dog healthy. With some patience and dedication, it can easily become a part of your lifestyle.

“Therapy dogs provide companionship, love and comfort to people on a volunteer basis. With their handlers, they visit various facilities to meet people who may feel cut off from human companionship, who may profit from tactile sensation of petting an animal or who may need some good memories stimulated by seeing a friendly canine face and a wagging tail. Scientific studies have proven that petting and interacting with a dog lowers stress hormones and blood pressure and helps relieve depression. Besides the physical benefits, dogs make people smile and laugh, forgetting some of their own troubles for a while. Therapy dogs contribute much to improving the quality of life for the elderly, the ill, and the emotionally frail.” Barksdale Labradoodles on Therapy Dogs.

Barkley Beau is a fourth generation Australian Labradoodle. He is a Therapy Dog, registered with Therapy Pets Unlimited. Barkley lives in Ladd Park with Jerry and Cheryl Anderson. He joined the Andersons on February 9, 2015, when he was 9 weeks old. When Cheryl and Jerry picked Barkley up at the breeder, Al Gordy, Barksdale Labradoodles, in Magee, MS they met Barkley’s grandfather, Smooch, who was a certified therapy dog who had been recognized in MS for his service.

When Barkley was 4 months Jerry and Barkley began puppy training with Laura Dickson, the trainer at Pets Mart in Brentwood. Barkley’s first test was for AKC Puppy Good Citizenship. Jerry and Barkley began training with the goal of taking Barkley to visit patients at the Veterans Administration (VA) and Vanderbilt Children’s Hospitals. Jerry and Barkley spent nine months of weekly training in preparation for the evaluation. In April 2016 Jerry and Barkley passed the Therapy Pets Unlimited evaluation. It took another year to get the VA registered with Therapy Pets Unlimited.

Since April 2017 Jerry and Barkley, Team Doodle, have visited patients at the VA in Murfreesboro. They regularly visit two memory units, a hospice unit, and a long-term care unit. Jerry knew Barkley would be fine in his volunteer role but didn’t know how he himself would handle it emotionally. The joy and happiness on the Veterans’ faces give Jerry a real sense of pride in what Barkley is accomplishing. Veterans and staff alike look forward to Team Doodle visits. Cheryl’s sister, created Team Doodle shirts which Jerry dons for each visit. Team Doodle visits the VA two to three times a month for two to two and a half hours, visiting 15-20 veterans every visit.

Their VA Routine

If a Veteran is in a wheelchair Jerry tells Barkley to” visit” and he will put his head on the Veteran’s legs. If the resident is in bed, the command is “up” and Barkley puts his paws on the bed and lays his head on his paws. At one visit at the end of June with a Veteran in bed, Barkley put his paws on the bed. The Veteran began petting and baby talking to Barkley. When Jerry and Barkley left the memory unit the manager had tears in his eyes and reported the Veteran hadn’t responded to anyone in over two months. Another Veteran formerly trained military dogs and in retirement trained Metro police dogs. At their first visit, Jerry commanded Barkley “up.” Barkley responded by putting his paws on the bed. The vet said, “No, no Barkley. Jump.” Barkley jumped up in bed with him and laid down beside him.

Team Doodle also visit Wellington Place of Brentwood where they see between 12 to 15 residents. Just like the VA, the residents and staff look forward to the visits.

Jerry says “It is so gratifying to see Barkley bring so much joy to people. Barkley’s grandfather was a Therapy Dog. Others in his line are serving as service and therapy dogs.”

What’s Next?

Jerry and Barkley are currently preparing for an evaluation with Pet Partners, another certifying Therapy Pet organization. Once certified, Team Doodle will have the opportunity to volunteer at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital.

Therapy dogs are being used in elementary schools, hospitals and even with high school students in stressful testing situations. Different from Service animals which are not to be approached while they are working, petting and hugging therapy animals is appropriate and encouraged. Generally speaking, institutions do not allow uncertified therapy animals to visit due to liability. Certified organizations provide liability insurance for their registered therapy animals.

Breed History

According to the Australian Labradoodles Association of America, the Australian Labradoodle breed dates back to the 1980’s and was initiated by Wally Conran of Royal Guide Dogs located in Victoria Australia. The intent was to create a breed that was allergy and asthma friendly with the temperament of a service dog. This journey was inspired by a vision impaired woman in Hawaii needed a Guide Dog which wouldn’t aggravate her husband’s allergies. Of the 31 Labradoodles bred at Royal Guide Dogs, a staggering 29 made it through as Guide Dogs, an accolade of paralleled proportion for this “new breed’ of Guide Dog. During this time Tegan Park and Rutland Manor continued the development and selective breeding started by Wally Conran and began infusing several other breeds into early generations of their Lab/Poodle crosses, to improve temperament, coat, conformation, and size and assist Conran in his efforts. DNA evidence of these dog breeds is still found in a few lines today, while others were bred out and not re-introduced into any other blood lines.

Currently the Australian Labradoodle is considered to be a cross between the Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, and Labrador Retriever, while the Labradoodle is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Poodle only.

Benefits of Having an Australian Labradoodle

They are extremely sociable, intuitive and friendly

Calm temperament, suited to be the perfect family companions

Intelligent and easily trainable

Allergy friendly—their coats are non shedding

The Barksdale Labradoodle Difference

Today the “Barksdale” Authentic Australian Labradoodles are still bred toward therapy and service level temperament. We think that while aesthetics are important– the temperament remains of the utmost importance.

Potential “Forever Home” should always consider this; after all, the average lifespan is 14 to 15 years. We share the love of Labradoodles by establishing a controlled breeding program

Black labradoodles are a lot smarter than you might think. Several studies have shown that dogs are highly intelligent creatures after all, so if you think dogs are just dopes, think again. Here’s what you should know:

Dogs Have Vocabularies.

In 2012, about 62% of American households included at least one pet, 78 million of which were dogs, and that’s just in the United States. For thousands of years, dogs have lived alongside humans, and as a result of the unique relationship, dogs have learned to read us so well that, like small children, they can actually infer meaning from our gestures and use that to solve problems. Researchers have found that dogs can actually remember and recognize over 150 words, and gestures.

Dogs Are as Smart as Two-Year-Olds.

Since dogs can remember over 150 words, and gestures, they have the approximate intelligence of two-year-old, human children. What’s even more incredible is that they have better math skills than two-year-olds. In fact, they could trump a three- or four-year-old in arithmetic.

Dogs Are Emotionally Intelligent, Too.

Believe it or not, dogs are emotionally intelligent, as well. Researchers from Goldsmiths College found that dogs are more likely to approach someone who’s upset than someone who isn’t. In other words, dogs have high levels of empathy, demonstrating that they have a higher emotional intelligence than other animals.

All those black labradoodle puppies for sale you find at Australian labradoodle breeders may seem as cute and dopey as they are lovable, but one day, they’ll grow up into highly intelligent dogs. It’s no wonder why 60% of Americans think pet owners lead more satisfying lives than non-pet owners or why 76% of dog owners say they have given toys or presents to their pets on Christmas. You don’t hear that about gold fish owners, do you? Don’t underestimate black labradoodles’ smarts.

If you’d like to know more about how smart black labradoodles are, feel free to share any question you may have in the comments.

Before you consider seeing what black labradoodle puppies for sale your area’s Australian labradoodle breeders have to offer, know that you stand at a very high risk of falling in love. People can’t help but adore their black labradoodles, and here’s the proof:

People Treat Their Dogs Like They’re Part of the Family.
People treat dogs like they’re part of the family, because — well — they are. About half of American dogs sleep in their owners’ beds, and another 87% curl up with their owners to watch TV. About one-third of dog owners even leave voice messages for their pets when they’re away, so that their pets can hear their voice. Even more incredible, 58% of dog owners include their pets in holiday portrait photos, and 70% sign the dog’s name on greeting cards. If that’s not enough to convince you, then consider the fact that more than 1 million dogs in the U.S. have been named the primary beneficiary of their owners’ estate.

Dogs Consider Us Part of Their Families.
Black labradoodles feel the same way, too. They consider their owners part of their family, too. Researchers at Emory University have used MRI machines to measure the neural response of dogs to the smell of people, both familiar and unknown. The scent of a dog’s owner activates the reward center of its brain. In other words, the reaction is one that indicates a level of familial love for their owners.

Americans Spend Exorbitant Amounts on Holiday Presents For Their Pets.
Believe it or not, 76% of dog owners say that they’ve given toys or presents to their pets on Christmas. Four in 10 dog owners actually hung stockings for their pets, according to the PetFinder.com poll. Of course, dogs didn’t return the gifts, either, because they have no concept of holidays, because they are dogs.

No wonder why Americans describe themselves more as “dog persons” rather than “cat persons” by a 70% to 20% margin, or why 60% of Americans think pet owners lead more satisfying lives than non-pet owners. Dog owners can’t help but fall in love with their furry friends.

If you’d like to know more about how lovable black labradoodles can be, feel free to share in the comments.

Chocolate and black labradoodle puppies are pretty great, but don’t forget about their owners. People who have chocolate labradoodle puppies are pretty amazing, too. Here are just a few of the many reasons why.

They’re Healthy One of the first things Australian labradoodle breeders tell prospective dog buyers is that the breed is an energetic one. While other dogs only need about 20 minutes of exercise, standard Australian labradoodle puppies need between half to a full hour’s worth of exercise each and every day, and you know who else gets exercise, too? The owners, of course. By playing with their black labradoodle puppies, owners get in shape, too.

They Have Big Hearts People who own dogs have really big hearts. If they didn’t, how would they develop such deep bonds with their animals? Dog owners actually have such big hearts that the vast majority of them (76%) actually buy their dogs toys or presents for the holidays. It might not seem like much, but Americans actually spend $5 billion on Christmas presents for their dogs each holiday.

They Lead More Satisfied Lives Dog owners lead more satisfying lives, or at least that’s what most people believe. According to a recent survey, 60% of Americans think that pet owners lead more satisfying lives than people who don’t own any pets, and why wouldn’t they? They have a companion who’s always happy to see them, who provides them with laughs, who cuddles right up to them, who helps them get out of the house, and more.

Dogs sure are a great time. That’s for sure. But they’re not the only ones who are awesome. Their owners are also really something else. Dog owners are healthier than others, have big hearts, and lead more satisfied lives.

If you want to improve your life, consider getting a dog for yourself. If you have any questions, feel free to share in the comments.

Looking Into a Dog’s Eyes Boosts Oxytocin, the Love Hormone
Recent research in Japan found that when dogs and humans gaze into one another’s eyes, the oxytocin levels of each jump. This hormone is sometimes referred to as “the love hormone” because it plays an important part in social bonding. Basically, this study shows that humans and their canine companions actually love each other.

Dogs Help Humans Get Exercise
Most dog owners (70%) take their dogs for at least one walk each day. Typically, they spend about 17 minutes on average walking their dogs. Black labradoodle puppies, on the other hand, require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise. This might not seem like much, but a 2010 study from the The Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that dog owners get about a full hour’s worth of aerobic exercise more than those who don’t own dogs. In other words, having black labradoodle puppies will help you get more exercise, which is linked to being happier.

Dog Owners Make Friends Easier
Having a dog means you at least have one friend, no matter what, but according to a study from Warwick University in Britain, you’ll have many, many more. In fact, the study found that a whopping 40% of people said it was easier to make friends as the result of owning a dog.

There’s a reason why pet ownership in the U.S. more than tripled between the 1970s and 2012, when about 164 million people owned pets, and it’s because pets — dogs in particular — make us happy. After all, more than half of America (60%) think pet owners lead more satisfying lives than non-pet owners.

If you want to improve your life, be a happier person, and even get in better shape, check out the Australian labradoodle puppies for sale. You’ll be glad you did.

If you have any questions about how dogs make people happier, feel free to share in the comments.

SONY DSC[/caption]Before you start looking at Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, there are a few things you should know about these adorable, furry friends.

Unless You Buy Miniature, They Can Get Pretty Big
Black labradoodle puppies can grow up to be pretty big. Standard black labradoodle puppies typically grow to be about 22 to 24 inches in height for males, and about 21 to 23 inches in height for females, while both of which can range in weight between 50 and 65 pounds. That being said, there are also miniature labradoodle puppies, too, for those who are looking for a smaller dog.

They Do Need a Fair Amount of Exercise
Black labradoodle puppies need a decent amount of exercise. A recent study found that most dog owners (70%) take their dogs for at least one walk a day, which usually lasts for about 17 minutes. This isn’t enough for black labradoodle puppies. These little guys need about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, and a decent sized yard to run around in.

They Do Need a Fair Amount of Grooming
Black labradoodle puppies aren’t the highest maintenance dogs, but they do need a fair amount of grooming. Because they’re a mix of poodle and Labrador, labradoodles can have different types of fur. Some might look like shaggy retrievers, while other might more closely resemble poodles with their loose curls. Regardless of which type of coat black labradoodle puppies have, they do need a fair amount of grooming. Most need to be brushed at least every other day with a slicker brush, and have their nails clipped about once every other month as well.

Labradoodles make for great family pets, but they’re not for every household. You need to have a decent sized house to accommodate their size, a decent sized yard to accommodate their exercise, and the willingness to accommodate their maintenance needs. If you have any questions, feel free to share in the comments.

If you’ve ever had a conversation with a dog owner about their pet, then chances are you know just how highly they think of their four-legged-friend. About 60% of people think that pet owners lead more satisfying lives than non-pet owners thanks to their furry pals. Dog owners love their canines so much so that more than three out of four (76%) actually give their pets toys on Christmas, and 70% will take them for at least one walk per day, with the average one being about 17 minutes.

Dog owners are infatuated, and for good reason, too. Dogs, like chocolate and black labradoodle puppies for example, have scientifically been proven to make for great pets. So if you’ve been thinking about looking at some chocolate labradoodle puppies for sale, here are just a few reasons why you should.

Dogs Make People Laugh
In one small study, dog owners were found to laugh significantly more than cat owners, which means that if you buy a chocolate labradoodle puppy, your life will be so much happier. What’s interesting about this study, too, is that it not only found those who owned dogs like black labradoodle puppies could laugh more than cat owners, but non-pet owners also laughed more than cat owners, which suggests that having a cat can be a bit of a drag.

Dogs Make People Fit
As previously mentioned, dog owners take their pets on one 17 minute walk a day, on average. When black labradoodle puppies take their owners on walks, both the dogs and the owners get in better shape, as one five-year-study of nearly 2,000 people in Perth, Australia found, noting that dog walking has the potential to increase the physical activity in a large proportion of the community.

Dogs Make People Social
Black labradoodle puppies can make their owners more social. In one study, strolling around with a dog was found to lead to more social interactions — particularly with strangers — than walking alone.
As if you needed another reason to consider getting black labradoodle puppies, which can make you laugh easier, more fit, and more social. If you have any questions about how great of a pet black labradoodle puppies can make, feel free to share in the comments.

If you buy a chocolate labradoodle puppy, there’s a high statistical chance that you will fall in love with it. Don’t believe it? Consider the following.

The Vast Majority of People Buy Their Chocolate Labradoodle Puppies Presents.
According to a recent survey, the vast majority (76%) of dog owners report having bought and given their dogs toys or presents on Christmas. Though it might seem like a silly thing to do, as chocolate labradoodle puppies have no grasp on the concept of seasonal gift giving, it does make sense. Chocolate labradoodle puppies quickly become part of the family, and you don’t not buy one of your family members a present on Christmas.

Chocolate Labradoodle Puppies Make People Exercise, Even If They Don’t Want To.
Chocolate labradoodle puppies require a half hour to an hour’s worth of exercise per day, and will pester their owners until they work out the energy. As a result, many dog owners will actually wind up taking their dogs for a walk. When they do, they get exercise, too. According to one study, a sizeable majority (70%) of dog owners take their dogs for at least one walk each day, with the average length of the walk being about 17 minutes. That’s a nice little bit of exercise they might otherwise not have gotten had they not decided to buy a dog.

Chocolate Labradoodle Puppies Will Bring More Laughter Into Your Life.
A recent study actually found that people who own dogs tend to laugh more, which is a good indicator that they’re generally a more happy type of person. In a study published in the journal Society and Animals, researchers asked people who owned dogs, cats, both, or neither to record how many times they laughed each day. Participants who owned dogs laughed more than those who owned only cats, or neither.

If you’ve been looking at Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and are on the fence about buying one, remember that those furry little guys will make your life better. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments.

Dogs like black labradoodle puppies have been man’s best friend for thousands of years, and in that long stretch of time, humans have learned some pretty amazing things about their canine companions. Here are 101 facts about dogs you never knew you wanted to know.

Dogs in History.

The ancestry of the modern, domesticated dogs we have today, like the black labradoodle puppies for sale you might find, dates back to between 18,800 and 32,100 years ago when they evolved from wolves, a type of animal known for its pack mentality. Because they descend from creatures that develop such strong bonds between members of the pack family, dogs like black labradoodle puppies are fiercely loyal.

This ancestry is also the reason why dogs curl up when they go to sleep. Black labradoodle puppies have an age-old instinct to keep warm, and protect their vital organs while they sleep, and so they curl up to defend them.

Speaking of adorable things dogs like black labradoodle puppies do when they sleep, this ancestry from wolves is also the reason why doggies spin around in circles before settling down to sleep. The little sleepy time dance is actually a nesting trait that’s been passed down all the way from their wild ancestors.

In ancient China, the emperor’s last line of defense was a Pekingese dog. Interestingly, he didn’t keep the dog on leash, but rather up his sleeve, so as to surprise his attackers.

Spiked dog collars might be a cool way to dress your dog up, but they actually served a purpose when they were first invented. In ancient Greece, people used to put spiked collars on their dogs to protect their throats from wolf attacks.

Cambridge Trinity College told Lord Byron that he was not allowed to bring his dog with him when he went. To get even with them, he wound up bringing a live bear with him in his dog’s stead.

In the 1860s, two stray dogs reached celebrity status in San Francisco. The best friends’ exploits were celebrated in local papers. So beloved were these two furry adventurers that they were granted immunity from San Francisco’s dog catchers.

Dog Lovers by the Numbers.

The U.S. is a dog country. According to a recent poll by the Associated Press, more people in the U.S. like dogs than like cats. Asking just under 2,000 people — 59% of whom weren’t pet owners — a whopping 74% said that they liked dogs “a lot,” while only 41% responded the same way about cats. Further driving this point home, a measly 2% of people said that they disliked dogs “a lot,” while 15% felt that way about cats.

Naturally, the U.S. has the most dogs in the world. There are some 75 million dogs living in the country.

Though you might think black labradoodle puppies were the nation’s favorite, the U.S. actually prefers labradors, according to the American Kennel Club.

Families who have dogs like black labradoodle puppies also go crazy over them. In a recent PetFinder.com poll, 63% of surveyed dog owners said that they get their pets Christmas presents. Four in 10 dog owners said that they hang stockings for their dogs. Dog owners in the U.S. even spend about $5 billion each year on gifts for their pets.

The Benefits of Owning a Dog.

Dogs like black labradoodle puppies help their owners get in shape. According to a 2010 study published in The Journal of Physical Activity and Health, dog walkers generally get about a full hour’s worth of aerobic exercise more than those who either don’t walk their dogs or those who don’t own dogs.

Having adorable little friends like black labradoodle puppies will even help guys get dates. A French study from 2008 found that a guy was three times more likely to get the phone number of a girl if he had a dog with him.

People who own dogs like black labradoodles also laugh more. According to a study published in the journal Society & Animals, dog owners recorded laughing more frequently throughout the course of a normal day than those who owned cats, and those who didn’t own any pet.

Having furry friends like black labradoodle puppies also make a person less likely to suffer from depression. A recent study found that pet owners — especially dog owners — tended to be less depressed, more happy, less lonely, and less isolated.

The relationship between a dog and its human companion is incredibly intimate. According to a 2013 study, it’s on the same level as a parent and child.

Dogs like black labradoodle puppies can even make work better. In a study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, workers who brought their dogs in to work with them were less stressed than others, and were much happier with their jobs.

Dogs also make it easier to make friends. A study from Warwick University in Britain found that 40% of people said it was easier to make friends as the result of having a dog.

Dogs in Pop Culture.

Believe it or not, you’ve never heard “A Day in the Life” by the Beatles in its entirety, even if you’ve listened to it before. That’s because Paul McCartney recorded an extra high-pitched whistle track that only canines can hear for the song for the pleasure of his Shetland sheepdog.

George H. and Barbara Bush’s English springer spaniel Millie once “wrote” a book called Millie’s Book that actually reached the number one spot on the New York Times’ non-fiction bestseller list.

Even though Lassie is just a fictional character, she’s probably the single-most famous dog of all time. Interestingly, each of the nine generations proceeding the original Lassie are descendants of Pal, the rough collie who played the character first.

Rin-Tin-Tin wasn’t only a real dog, but also a survivor of war. American soldier Lee Duncan rescued Rin-Tin-Tin from a French battlefield in the first World War, and trained the German Shepherd once they got back home. Eventually Rin-Tin-Tin became a box office smash, and even helped bring Warner Bros. back from bankruptcy.

Lakia was once a stray dog wandering the streets of Moscow, but after being trained, became an astronaut aboard Sputnik 2, making her the first animal to ever orbit earth. Unfortunately, it was impossible to bring Lakia back, and Russian officials said she was euthanized prior to oxygen depletion. However, it was revealed in 2002 that Lakia actually died within hours of launching into space because of overheating. Thankfully, Soviet officials built a small monument to the dog in 2008 near the military research facility where she was trained.

For decades, kids have solved mysteries right alongside Scooby Doo. Originally, though, Scooby Doo and the gang were almost a musical outfit. Before Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scoob, they were originally Geoff, Mike, Kelly, Linda, WW, and their dog Too Much, who played bongos in the band.

Charlie Brown’s Snoopie has been an American icon for what feels like forever, and as it turns out, is about 65-years-old.

The Intelligence of Dogs.

Dogs like black labradoodle puppies are smart, and one service dog named Kirsch actually graduated college. After attending all of his owner’s classes, he received an honorary master’s degree in mental health counseling.

Dogs are so smart, in fact, that strays in Russia have figured out how to use the subway system to travel to more densely populated areas in search of food.

Service dogs, in particular, are pretty smart. After they’ve been trained, they know that it’s business time when the harness goes on, and when it comes off, they’re playful and energetic, knowing that they’re off the clock.

Seeing eye dogs give service dogs a run for their money, though. These canines are so well trained that they can go to the bathroom on command, allowing their owners to be able to clean up after them. Usually, the command is “get busy,” and dogs will pace back and forth until they’re ready to go.

However, dogs don’t need a ton of training to be smart. Many dogs, like black labradoodle puppies, are inherently clever. Many even know when their owners are sad. According to a study from Goldsmiths College, dogs are more likely to approach a person who’s upset than someone who’s not, which suggests that they’re empathetic creatures with a higher emotional intelligence than other animals.

Dogs like black labradoodle puppies even have great memories. According to a report by ABC News, German shepherd Capitan has returned to his owner’s grave every single day — ever since he died, six years prior. Capitan will take walks around the cemetery but eventually returns to the grave, and caretakers at the cemetery have been feeding the dog and taking care of him in the meantime.

On a lighter note, dogs like black labradoodle puppies are smart enough to even have vocabularies. Research has found that dogs can remember and recognize more than 150 words. A border collie named Chaser can even remember 1,022 words.

Heroic Hounds.

Dogs are capable of incredible feats of bravery. Two strays in Afghanistan were even able to save 50 American soldiers. A group on Facebook then raised $21,000 to bring the canines back to the U.S. and reunite them with their friends in the service.

One of Michael Vick’s former fighting dogs eventually became a therapy dog who goes around comforting dying children.

While on duty in Fallujah, Iraq, military dog Lex was wounded in an attack that killed his handler. Despite his own injuries, Lex refused to leave the side of U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin J. Lee, who was also wounded in the attack, and had to be dragged away for medical treatment.

Apollo, a trained search and rescue dog, was at the World Trade Center within 15 minutes of the attacks on September 11 along with his handler, Peter Davis of the New York City Police Department.

Dogs don’t have to serve in the military to be heroes, either. Golden retriever Brutis saved a young child from a coral snake in 2004, and received a near-deadly bite for his efforts. Luckily, he survived and earned the National Hero Dog Award.

Before Hurricane Katrina struck, the ironically named black labrador Katrina knew something was up. She not only warned everyone about the incoming flood, but also stuck around helping people. She even saved a drowning man before the flood took his life. So selfless was Katrina that she eventually needed to be rescued herself.

Moti, a five-year-old German shepherd took a bullet for his family when a masked intruder broke in in 2007. The gunman ran away after, and Moti luckily made a full recovery.

As you check out different Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, you may not think that they’ll eventually one day become a part of your family, but rest assured — they will. The odds are pretty stacked, after all. Here’s why.

Black Labradoodle Puppies Are There For You When You’re Sad. One of the most amazing things about black labradoodle puppies is not that they know when their owners are sad, but that they then go and comfort them. According to a study from Goldsmiths College, dogs are more likely to approach a person who is either crying or showing visible signs of distress than someone who is perfectly content. This means that when you’re sad or upset, your black labradoodle puppies will be there to cheer you up.

Black Labradoodle Puppies Have Great Chemistry. Chocolate labradoodle puppies are easy to develop a bond with, because of their (and our) bio-chemistry. You see, oxytocin is a hormone that makes people feel connected to one another, allowing them to build close bonds and relationships. Researchers in Japan have found that domesticated animals are capable of producing this “love hormone,” which explains how and why dogs are — of all the animals in the animal kingdom — man’s best friend.

Black Labradoodle Puppies Get All the Gifts at Christmas. And in case you weren’t convinced by now that black labradoodle puppies will quickly become part of your closest family, consider the fact that millions of Americans each year buy their dogs Christmas presents, just like they would any other member of the family. In fact, about 76% of dog owners have said that they’ve bought their dogs toys for Christmas. According a poll from PetFinder.com, Americans spent about $5 billion each year getting holiday gifts for their dogs.

There’s a reason why 70% of Americans describing themselves as “dog people” rather than “cat people,” and why 60% of Americans think pet owners lead more satisfying lives than non-pet owners. The fact of the matter is that once you buy a dog, it becomes part of the family.

It’s inevitable. Black labradoodle puppies will always wind up becoming parts of the family. How could they not, with their loving eyes, adorable coats, and playfulness? Dogs like black labradoodles become such loved family members, in fact, that a PetFinder.com poll found that 63% of surveyed dog owners will get their doggies presents for Christmas, that four in 10 dog owners will hang stockings for their pets, and that Americans spent about $5 billion each year getting their dogs gifts for the holidays.

Such behavior might seem — at best — odd, or — at worst — bizarre — to people who have never owned dogs like black goldendoodle puppies, but it makes complete sense to those who have, because dogs are great. They literally make their owners’ lives better. Here’s how.

Dogs Make Us Feel Better. Families who own black labradoodle puppies are happier families. That’s a fact backed up by a few different studies. Research shows that spending just 15 to 30 minutes with a dog can help a person feel more relaxed, and more calm. Playing with dogs has also been shown to boost a person’s levels of serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters that control a person’s sense of happiness, pleasure, and tranquility.In one study, psychologists from universities in St. Louis and Miami found that having canine companions provided the same — if not similar — benefits of having a human companion.In another study, researchers gave dogs to participants, and assessed them after 10 months’ time with their canine comrades. The researchers found that participants who were given dogs had a higher sense of self-esteem, a reduced fear of crime, and better exercise habits, which brings us to our next point.

Dogs Help Us Get in Shape and Stay Physically Fit. Black labradoodle puppies need their exercise, and when they get active, you get active, too. Whether you’re just taking your Australian labradoodle puppies out for a leisurely stroll, or throwing the frisbee around, you and your doggies both get exercise.A 2010 study published in The Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that dog walkers generally get about a full hour’s worth of aerobic exercise more than those who either don’t have dogs, or don’t walk their dogs.In another study from 2011, Michigan State University researchers found that 60% of dog owners who walked their dogs on a regular basis met the federal criteria for regular moderate or vigorous exercise.The physical benefits of owning dogs like black labradoodle puppies are particularly beneficial to the elderly. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Service found that elderly persons who took their dogs on walks actually established a more regular exercise routine, and were in fact more physically fit than other elderly persons.

Dogs Are Great For Kids. Children whose families have dogs like black labradoodle puppies have been shown to be more healthy, more physically active, and more focused.According to Science Daily, kids who grew up with dogs in their house had fewer allergies than those who didn’t have dogs, and were actually less likely to have eczema. Even better, these kids who grew up with dogs also had fewer missed days from school, and had stronger immune systems, too.Children are also more active if the family has a dog. A University of London study found that kids whose families owned dogs got more exercise on a more frequent basis.Dogs are also highly beneficial to children who have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These kids have a ton of energy, which can distract them and prevent them focusing on school work. Having dogs like black labradoodle puppies around can help them excise this pent up energy with exercise. Dogs even have a calming effect on kids, which is why many therapists actually use dogs in treatment.Even children who don’t have to deal with ADHD can benefit academically from owning dogs like black labradoodle puppies. Burns Pet Nutrition sponsors the READ program, which, as the name might suggest, helps young children learn to read with the help of dogs. Researchers working with the READ program have found significant amounts of evidence that children who read to their canine companions become more literate, and more confident in their capabilities.

Dogs Help You Be More Social. Dogs like black labradoodle puppies can liven up your social life, believe it or not. These furry, four-legged friends can help make you more approachable, and even get over some shyness you may or may not have. Whether you’re taking your doggy to the park, on a walk, to the pet store, to the vet, or to a special event, having a dog is a great way to meet people.In fact, Warwick University in Britain conducted a study, and found that 40% of people said it was easier to make friends as the result of owning a dog.In a different study from the University of Liverpool and the University of Bristol, researchers found that residents who owned dogs were more likely to encounter other dog owners than people who didn’t meet a dog, which means that those who own dogs are more out and about, making them more likely to have social encounters.

Dogs Make Us Healthier. In addition to making you more physically active, owning dogs like black labradoodle puppies can actually make you healthier.Don’t believe it? Just check out a 2004 study published in the British Journal of Health. Not only do dog owners have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and suffer fewer heart attacks; researchers also found that dog owners have fewer medical issues than those who don’t own any pets.In fact, dogs may even actually protect us from poor health. As previously mentioned, children who grew up around dogs usually have fewer allergies than those who grew up without dogs. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that mice exposed to dust from dog owning-households which allowed their dogs to go outside developed an altered community of microbes in their gut, protecting them against allergens. It’s these microbes that could potentially help children who grow up around dogs develop resistance to allergens.

Dogs Relieve Their Owners’ Stress . Buying black labradoodle puppies might seem like a weird way to relieve stress, but science has found that dogs can help melt their owners’ worries right away.A 2006 study from the State University of New York at Buffalo gave 240 married couples who owned dogs various types of stressful tasks; the subjects completed the tasks alone, with their spouse, or they were able to see their dog before or after the task. Naturally, the subjects who had the least stress were those who got to see their dogs.Another study from the International Journal of Workplace Health Management found that workers who brought their dogs with them to work weren’t as stressed as others, and were actually much happier with their jobs, all because they got to have their four-legged friends hanging out with them.If that’s not enough to convince you that dogs can help mitigate humans’ stress, consider a study published in the journal Society & Animals. Researchers asked dog owners, dog/cat owners, cat owners, and other people to record how often they laughed over the course of a day. Naturally, dog owners laughed more. People who owned both cats and dogs also recorded frequent instances of laughter.Dogs like black labradoodle puppies often know when people are sad, allowing them to provide comfort when it’s needed. A study from Goldsmiths College found that dogs are more likely to approach a person who’s crying or in distress than someone who’s not, which suggests that dogs are empathetic creatures who want to console those who are in pain.What’s more, dogs like black labradoodle puppies are capable of loving their owners back. Researchers in Japan have found that domesticated animals are capable of releasing oxytocin — the “love hormone” — in intimate situations, just as humans are able to. Oxytocin is the hormone that makes people feel more connected with one another, allowing them to form close bonds, and relationships. The research, which was published in the journal Science, detected this hormone when pets interacted with their owners. No wonder dogs quickly become members of the family!

Dogs Are Hardwired to Be Loyal. Dogs like black labradoodle puppies quickly become family members not only because they make humans’ lives better, but also because they’re hardwired to be loyal. Sure, a black goldendoodle might not be the most wolfish dog in the world, but its origins are the same as any other domesticated house-dog. Their ancestry reaches back to between 18,800 and 32,100 years ago when they evolved from wolves, which are known for living in packs and developing strong bonds with the members of their packs. It’s this ancestral behavior that makes dogs like black labradoodles so loyal.According to Stephen Zawistowski, a science advisor with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (better known as the ASPCA), dogs see their humans as members of their packs. Therefore, they naturally develop the same, intense bonds as they would with their canine brothers and sisters.In fact, a 2013 study claimed that the relationship between dogs and their owners is similar to that of a parent and child. As a result of their ancestry, which subconsciously tells them to affiliate with others, they naturally bond with people.

Dogs make our lives better. They make us feel better, help us get physically fit, are great for kids, make us more social, help us be healthier, reliever their owners’ stress, and are hardwired to be loyal.

In addition to all the benefits owning black labradoodle puppies provides, one of the main reasons owning a dog is so great is that they give purpose to their owners’ lives. Their companionship is an invaluable asset. In a study published in the Journal of Psychology elderly persons who owned a dog reported feeling more satisfied socially, physically, and emotionally than those who didn’t own a dog.

Labradoodles in particular make for great pets. Not only are they absolutely adorable, but they come in a variety of different sizes, so you can always find one that’s perfect for your home. They also come in a variety of colors. There are black labradoodle puppies, chocolate labradoodle puppies, goldendoodle puppies, black goldendoodle puppies, and more. Their coats don’t need bathing as much, and are even relatively hypoallergenic.

Of course, the only way to find out just how much dogs can improve peoples’ lives is to own one yourself. Check out black labradoodle puppies for sale, and consider getting one for yourself. If you do, your life will be all the better for it.